Career Services for Non-Traditional Students

Presenter: Stephanie Oden, Indiana Wesleyan University

Track: Serving Multiple Audiences

Description: Developing programs and systems for the non-traditional student presents both challenges and opportunities for career development offices. This session will discuss how Indiana Wesleyan University uses the life purpose model as a foundation for career development when working with non-traditional students. We will also discuss ways to enhance current programs so that you can more effectively serve the diverse non-traditional student population.

I had the pleasure of speaking with Stephanie on Thursday. We discussed her upcoming workshop and it sounds like one that will appeal to just about all career professionals. Her workshop will have special relevance for those who are working with non-traditional, (older students, career changing students or alumni, or online students). I asked her about the format of workshops and she ensured me although there will be PowerPoint, she will have plenty of time for attendees to interact and share their personal experiences of working with non-traditional students. In fact, she will encourage attendees to envision themselves as non-traditional students to better understand their concerns, barriers, and strengths. Stephanie will also share observations regarding her experience working in Indiana Wesleyan University’s Center For Life Calling & Leadership and how they have adjusted their offerings to better serve non-traditional students. Furthermore she will discuss some of the areas in which she is looking to focus on going forward.

Stephanie and I chatted about how their center is implementing this approach throughout their programs and services such as their Series of Job Search Skills Workshops. It is essential that these workshops are tailored to the audience whether it is for new college grads or career changers. Her center has been intentional about maintaining focus and giving special attention to the needs of their non-traditional students and strives to implement this approach into all there programs and services.

Stephanie mentioned that since this is a cutting-edge topic, there is not much research out their covering program development for non-traditional students. So if you want to learn more about this exciting, blossoming field, be sure to attend Stephanie’s session. You will walk away 7 keys to providing transformational career services to non-traditional students.